In the success rates of IVFs or any assisted reproduction procedure, the role of Embryologists is often underrated. Most of the people are unaware of their very presence behind their journey towards achieving parenthood. Despite this ignorance, we should not overlook the fact that these embryologists are essentially scientists, who play a crucial role in the successful conception of babies through advanced assisted reproductive technologies.

An embryologist is nothing short of a scientist, who helps to create viable embryos to either be used in IVF treatment or while embryo freezing. The responsibilities of embryologist involve prudently managing and maintaining the genetic fabric used in creating embryos. They also take care of the development of the embryos closely. This requires deep understanding of the science behind nurturing eggs, sperm and embryos outside human body clinical methods and technological backup to ensure success rates. With the rising incidents of infertility globally approximately 1 in 7 of reproductive age being diagnosed as infertile the role of embryologist has also been intensified over the years. Globally, every year over five million ART babies are born through ART treatment.

If we talk about India, the IVF industry is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 28 per cent, and is assumed to be around USD 775 million (Rs 495 crore) by 2022.

Comprehending the role of embryologist

Before learning about embryologist, its imperative to understand the whole IVF process. It starts from extracting the eggs, retrieving sperm sample, and then fertilizing them manually by injecting sperm into an egg in the laboratory on a dish. The embryo is then transferred into the uterus. After the retrieval of eggs, the eggs are handed over to a team of highly trained embryologists that perform these procedures in a sophisticated and well-controlled environment

Embryologists are the experts of Clinical Embryology, a branch of biology concerned with the study of fertilization of eggs and development of embryos. They are the scientists who help to create embryos outside the womb using sperms and eggs.

Future of embryologists

As more and more couples are now going for IVF when they are unable to conceive naturally, it shows there is an increase in the demand for ART treatments. This also indicates that there will be a demand for trained embryologists. The surplus of embryologist demand will also call for the requirement of intense knowledge in application of emerging technologies in the near future as technology is no doubt ruling the IVF industry.

An embryologist can be employed by assisted reproductive clinics in government as well as private hospitals. Gradually, one can also be given more responsible positions as Lab manager or Lab director. But embryologist is such a job which needs rigorous training in laboratory skills, management and be updated about the latest technologies. Seeing the trend, many educational institutions have introduced embryology courses in their module. One can also join these institutes after completion of their course as faculty of embryologist.

DISCLAIMER : Views expressed above are the author's own.

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Embryology: Understanding the science and the scientists behind a successful IVF procedure - The Times of India Blog